US DOL 2009 Fatal Work Injury Summary

The preliminary 2009 fatal work injury data is now available from the US Department of Labor. 

It is critical to ensure your employees are protected against the most common hazards that cause fatalities throughout the United States.  When you look at the breakdown of fatal work injuries (listed below), there is a very good chance that clear and easily recognizable safety sign postings can offer that reminder that might save a life.

Take a look at this summary that spells out the most common fatal work injuries- click on the link in each category to view some signs that can provide some additional safety in your workplace.

Summary of Fatal Work Injuries- 2009 Total- 4,340

• Transportation Incidents (39%)
  Highway Incidents
• Contact with Objects and Equipment (17%)
  Struck by an object
• Assaults and Violent Acts (18%)
  Homicides
• Falls (14%)
  From Roof (18%)
  From Ladder (20%)
  From Scaffold, Staging (9%)
  From Nonmoving Vehicle (12%)
  On Same Level (13%)
  From Floor, Dock or Ground Level (5%)
  From Building Girders or Structural Steel (3%)
  Down Stairs or Steps (3%)
  Unknown (17%)
• Exposure to harmful substances or environments (9%)
• Fires and explosions (3%)

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics: Injuries, Illnesses, and Fatalities